When it comes to compression socks, one of the questions you might have is what compression level is right for me? 15-20mmHg? 20-30mmHg? We'll break it down for you. First, let's find out what those numbers mean.
What is mmHg?
What is mmHg? This is another common question for people buying compression socks. The CDC says mmHg is a measurement unit, the same one used when you get your blood pressure checked.
mm stands for millimeters of mercury. Hg is the symbol for mercury on the periodic table of elements. Specifically, this refers to the height to which the pressure in the blood vessels is pushing a column of mercury.
What do mmHg Numbers Mean?
When it comes to mmHg and compression socks, the numbers indicate the amount of compression the socks are applying to your feet and legs.
If there is more than one number next to mmHg, that means you are looking at a range of compression, or in the case of Nabee Socks, graduated compression.
Nabee Socks feature graduated compression to help push the blood from your legs back to your heart.
What is Graduated Compression?
Nabee Socks feature graduated compression. This means that the compression level is highest at the bottom of the sock near the ankle, and it gradually decreases up the sock as it moves toward the top, just below the knee.
The higher compression at the bottom helps move the blood back up the leg and toward the heart, which is one of the benefits of wearing compression socks. Think of it like a tube of toothpaste. You'll push harder at the bottom but then ease up on the pressure toward the top. That's how graduated compression works.
Do not buy socks that don't have graduated compression. They don't promote blood flow back to the heart and can actually cause circulation issues like swelling and blood flow back down to the foot.
What Compression Level Should I Use?
Nabee Socks feature both 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg compression levels. We use these two levels for a few different reasons. First, 15-20 mmHg is perfect for everyday use at work, as well as, running, jogging, and other athletic activities.
One of the main complaints about compression socks is that they are difficult to put on. Both are 15-20 mmHg and 20-30 mmHg compression socks are easy to put on. Plus, our "Stay-Up Cuff" is larger and non-binding for even more comfort below the knee.
Essentially, if you don't have severe varicose veins or DVT, you don't necessarily need 20-30 mmHg or higher levels of pressure. But some people love the extra compression, and you should always go with whatever level feels more comfortable unless your doctor recommends a particular level.
So if you're looking for fun and colorful compression socks that are perfect for everyday use, work, running, pregnancy, standing, and more -- click the button below and get yourself some Nabee Socks!
